Emergency Preparedness

Emergency Preparedness Is Everyone's ResponsibilityLocal governments are expected to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to a wide variety of potential emergency situations – from severe weather to domestic terrorism. When an emergency occurs, they are ready to meet the critical needs of the community as a whole.

Individuals have a similar responsibility to take steps to ensure that they are prepared to care for the needs of their household during an emergency. Numerous actual emergencies demonstrate that citizens who accept this important responsibility fare much better than those who do not. Personal preparedness also reduces or eliminates unnecessary burdens on emergency responders at a time when resources are already stretched to the limit.

Consider Some Important Questions

Are you and your family prepared for an emergency?

Is your family prepared to cope with a disaster if you are called upon to assist in the disaster response?

Have you planned evacuations?

Do you have a family reunification plan if you are separated during an event?

Do you have a communication plan that will work even if technology is unavailable?

Do you have a survival cache only at your home or is it with you and accessible at all times?

Prepare a 72-Hour Emergency KitThe first few days following an emergency are often the most difficult. Loss of power, communications, and transportation resources can make it difficult or even impossible to obtain basic necessities. Many of these basic needs can be met by preparing and maintaining a 72-hour emergency kit for each member of your household. The cost of one kit is approximately $150 including freeze-dried foods.